Shows
The Swinging Palm Trees PodcastEpisode #151 with Ashley TabatabaiOn today's episode I chat with filmmaker and actor Ashley Tabatabai. We talk about his Oscar® qualified short film 'Hamdardi' and why it was important for him to make, and the technical challenges he and his team had to navigate during production. We chat about issues of Identity, heritage, storytelling and how political policies have far reaching consequences. Ashley and I geek out over Superman, Batman, The Teenage Mutant Turtles, and discuss our shared interests in the Filipino Martial Art of Kali, and of course, Ashley shares the quote that continually inspires him. Writer/co-director and...
2025-03-2752 min
The Roundtable with Robert BannonAshley Tabatabai Is Here To Talk Directing & Writing the Oscar® Qualified Short "HAMDARDI"Ashley Tabatabai, writer/co-director of the Oscar® qualified HAMDARDI is here to talk about his work and it is as timely as ever. This is a story of a bereaved immigration officer whose inner turmoil awakens his compassion to the plight of two young Iranian travellers who are caught in an unfair travel ban. The prejudice highlighted in this film sheds light on the broader issues of immigration and the human cost of policy decisions.Co-directors Ashley Tabatabai and Stefan Fairlamb’s HAMDARDI follows the story of a bereaved immigration officer whose inner turmoil awa...
2024-11-0620 min
The Ash Taba ShowIt's The Subtle Things That Make The Difference | Casting Director Paul WeberOn this episode I chat with LA Casting Director Paul Weber. He has cast over 75 features and shows and has 20 years in the casting profession. Paul has worked with most of the major studios and networks on numerous television series and features, the most prominent being MGM as in house casting director and executive.We talk about:Paul's experience as an independent casting director post working at MGM.Why Netflix is doing so well.What Paul thinks it would have been like to cast at a studio like MGM now during the streaming era.The explosion...
2022-01-061h 05
The Ash Taba ShowThe Only Value We Have Is In Our Authenticity | Lucy RussellOn this episode I chat with actress Lucy Russell who's latest show "Atlantic Crossing" has recently won an International Emmy for Best Mini Series. She started her acting career in her late twenties, having tried every other respectable job she could think of first and with a degree in Italian and Business from UCL in London. Her first feature was also Christopher Nolan and Emma Thomas's first film, Following.She then studied for at The Poor School, finishing in 1999 (Baz Luhrmann's 'Sunscreen' on constant replay - go on, it's worth a listen). She was cast as the...
2021-12-161h 22
The Ash Taba ShowI'm Always Going To Go With Casting The Nicer Person | Jenn PresserOn this episode I chat with LA based Casting Director Jenn Presser who is Head of Casting at Break Away Casting. We talk about:The unique ability creatives have to go from crazy busy to "nothing" overnight.The benefit of being able to get out of the Hollywood "bubble".The impact of Covid costs on indie films and how that translated to casting.Experiences of working with Directors & Creatives on indie films who want an A List name attached.How casting is getting acknowledged more for its part in the creative process.Suggestions on h...
2021-12-091h 00
The Ash Taba ShowAlways Choose Happiness | Casting Director Jaimie BeebeOn this episode I chat with LA Casting Director Jaimie Beebe. She has worked with major brands, celebrities, and directors such as Dannon, Oikos, Childhelp, Betty White, Shaquille O’Neil, John Stamos, Billy Jayne, and more… Jaimie has cast several music videos for bands Buckcherry and Breaking 27, as well as many voiceover spots for radio. More recently Jaimie has begun casting shorts and feature films. Her passion is finding the perfect actor for the project she is working on to achieve the best result possible. Jaimie is also host of the highly successful podcast "Strictly Stalking".We talk a...
2021-11-111h 02
The Ash Taba ShowMake Sure Your Voice Is Yours | Entrepreneur Sam GoyalOn this episode I welcome back solar entrepreneur Sam Goyal to the show. Sam has built & led rooftop Solar projects across SE Asia for over a decade. He is the Founder & CEO of Solar Horizon, a boutique Solar Developer focused on the Commercial & Industrial (C&I) sector, based out of Singapore since 2013. He was recognised amongst the 50 Future Global Green Leaders of 2020, by the World CSR Congress, for his contribution to the growth of rooftop Solar in the SE Asia. Sam holds a Masters Degree in International Business from the University of London and is a Clean Energy Ventures P...
2021-08-181h 15
The Ash Taba ShowDon't Feel Like You Need Money To Start Making Films | Michael Gamarano SingletonOn this episode I chat with filmmaker Michael Gamarano Singleton. Michael is half Brazilian, half English and studied at London Met Film where he graduated in 2009. His work often revolves around social issues designed to make audiences think. His latest short ‘Denzel’ has a buzz around it as it starts its festival run, having recently screened at the LA International Short Film Festival.We talk about:Advice for anyone who has just come out of film school.The benefit of learning by doing and creating on the job.Why filmmakers should just start making their own work...
2021-07-221h 07
The Ash Taba ShowWe Are Completely On Your Side | Casting Director Sydney AldridgeOn this episode I chat with Casting Director Sydney Aldridge. Sydney has been working in casting since 2015. Starting her journey as a casting assistant at Beach Casting and later moving on to work with Rose Wicksteed, Anna McAuley, Kate & Lou and most recently, Sasha Robertson. Sydney comes from an acting background and that underpins the way she works as a Casting Director.We spoke about:He work on "The Show Must Go Online" for 20 weeks during lockdown.What attracted her to a career in casting when she was a successful working actress.Why she loves online...
2021-07-061h 09
The Ash Taba ShowYou Have To Understand Both Sides of The Argument to Start a Discussion | Matthew & Barnaby O'ConnorOn this episode I chat with filmmakers Matthew O'Connor & Barnaby O'Connor of Ivy Film. They have directed several music videos, numerous commercials and one previous feature documentary California High. Their latest documentary feature "The Pickup Game" is an inside look at the emergence of the ‘pickup’ business - an industry where self-styled seduction coaches travel the world, charging a small fortune to teach men skills they claim will guarantee success with women. Four years in the making and the result of a global, coordinated shoot across multiple countries, The Pickup Game cracks open a worldwide, underground subculture that man...
2021-06-171h 31
The Ash Taba ShowLove is honor and service of self and others | Wellness Therapist Lauran WareOn this episode I welcome emotional and mental wellness therapist Lauran Ware back to the show. She delivers an eclectic holistic approach to wellbeing and mental health and therapy. Facilitating sessions and programmes using tools from her studies in western psychology, psychotherapy & counselling.We talk about:The ways in which Covid challenged people at their most fundamental levels.Why everything begins and ends in self-awareness and curiosity.This idea that romantic love has taken on god like status.The importance of radical honesty.Practical tips on how to navigate our emotions and what they are trying...
2021-05-251h 40
The Ash Taba ShowInterview With The Head of Casting at Disney Animation Studios | Jamie Sparer RobertsOn this episode I chat with the Head of Casting at Disney Animation Studios, Jamie Sparer Roberts. Jamie has cast projects like Frozen, Moana, Zootopia, Winnie The Pooh and Raya and the Last Dragon.We talk about:What it has been like to work on animation projects during Covid.What Jamie looks for in actors.How Jamie goes about finding people for roles in her projects.What it was like for Jamie to move from Live Action casting to Animation casting.The biggest thing to do when auditioning.Key things Jamie recommends actors focus on.Nature...
2021-05-131h 13
The Ash Taba ShowMake It Your Own | Casting Director Caitlin WellOn this episode I talk with Casting Director Caitlin Well. Caitlin worked as a Casting Associate at Warner Brothers on projects like Man Of Steel and Batman v Superman. She then went on to work in casting in Australia for a year before returning to LA to freelance with Casting Director John Papsidera. Caitlin set up as a Casting Director in her own right in 2019, largely focusing on independent feature films.We talk about:How being freelance during Covid gave her more control over her career.Some of the ways scripts and films were impacted by...
2021-05-051h 20
The Ash Taba ShowWhy Self-Awareness Is Key | Casting Director Meg MormanOn this episode I chat with Casting Director Meg Morman who is one half of Morman Boling Casting. We talk about:The impact of Covid on indie film budgets.How she navigated the inherent uncertainty that came up during the Lockdown. Her preference for virtual auditions and key tips for how to approach them.What it was like when she and Sunny started out with Morman Boling.The experience of making the transition into managing people.Her ideal type of projects.Why it is essential to have other interests outside of acting.To fi...
2021-04-1948 min
The Ash Taba ShowYou Want To Be The Actor Who's Not Acting | Clare HarlowOn this episode I chat with Casting Director Clare Harlow. Clare was Casting Associate at Kate Dowd Casting for 8 years where she worked on projects like "Treadstone", "Jack Ryan", "Official Secrets" and "Automata". We talk about:How it's a common misconception that the end decision is always Casting's.Natural ability Vs TechniqueAdvice for in person auditions and why they are Clare's preference.How she has been using Zoom for casting sessions over the last year.Tips on how to approach one liner roles, including examples of how not to do them.Accents and having footage of o...
2021-03-301h 37
The Ash Taba ShowTrust Being In That Authentic, Vulnerable Space | Casting Director Michelle LewittOn this episode I speak with Casting Director Michelle Lewitt. She has been casting since 1999. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she grew up exposed to the film/TV industry, but originally pursued other avenues in the arena of sports. An avid basketball fan and player, she began her profession as a basketball coach. After a few years of coaching she felt her talents being called in a different direction and left the coaching field to enter the feature film industry. Mentored by casting legends Jane Jenkins and Janet Hirshenson, working along side them for almost 10 years, Michelle smoothly...
2021-03-151h 37
The Ash Taba ShowThe Story Always Comes First | Lance NielsenOn this episode I chat with screenwriter and director Lance Nielsen, who's written and directed countless plays and is known for his debut feature film "The Journey" (Jason Flemyng, Lindsey Coulson) as well as the Sci-Fi novels "Diamonds In The Sky".We talk about:The importance of self imposed deadlines and accountability.The difference between writing a novel and a screenplay.The process of writing a TV series and what goes into pitching it.Why preparation is a crucial component in the writing process.Understanding what story you want to tell and the medium it is...
2021-02-092h 50
The Ash Taba ShowBe Patient & Trust In The Process | Olissa RogersOn this episode I chat with Olissa Rogers who is Casting Associate at Fiona Weir Casting. She started her casting journey in Germany before moving to London to work with Jeremy Zimmerman. Since then she has moved on to work for the likes of Kharmel Cochrane for commercials as well as TV/Film projects, Theo Park, helping to cast Ted Lasso and Amy Hubbard.We talk about:What it's been like to cast projects during lockdown.Key Zoom performance tips.The difference between casting in Germany and casting in the UK.Why it's beneficial to always...
2021-01-271h 11
The Ash Taba ShowTaking a Conscious Approach to Mindset Is Fundamental To Succeed as a Performer | Dane ReisOn this episode I chat with performer and podcast host Dane Reis. He has been a professional entertainer for over 16-years singing, dancing, and acting all around the World! He has performed in nine shows on the Vegas Strip. He is also the creator & host of the podcast, “You Booked It” the #1 podcast where you learn how to create a successful entertainment career. Guests share their journeys through the industry where we discover the fundamentals and niche golden nuggets that actually create a successful career in our industry, and fill the gap between training and the real world. W...
2021-01-0945 min
The Ash Taba ShowEveryone Has A Story To Tell | Diane FoyOn this episode I chat with PR & Marketing coach Diane Foy. She helps actors and musicians attract Fans, Media, and Industry. During her 16 years as an entertainment publicist, she has secured international media coverage for hundreds of musicians and actors including Jane’s Addiction’s Perry Farrell, Sass Jordan, Big Sugar, DOA, The Parlotones, Mackenzie Phillips, Alanna Masterson, Robb Wells, Robert Loggia, and Tyler Blackburn.Diane is also the host of the Sing! Dance! Act! Thrive! podcast and has interviews with musicians, actors, dancers, and industry influencers on what it takes to succeed. We talk about...
2020-12-1740 min
Superfan Attraction: Personal Branding for Artists & Creatives with Diane FoyAshley Tabatabai on Actors Creating Their Own Work + Tips from Casting DirectorsToday’s guest is actor, filmmaker, and podcast host Ashley Tabatabai. After growing up in Spain and then attending University in the UK, his focus gravitated towards an acting career. As I’m sure many of you actors can relate, an actor’s life consists of numerous auditions and rejections. Ash wasn’t going to let that stop him so he began to write and produce his own content and went on to premier an award-winning short film at the LA International Short Film Festival. I wanted listeners to hear about his experiences with creating his own content as an actor an...
2020-12-1027 min
The Ash Taba ShowBe Proactive & Find The Joy In Your Work | Zora DeHorterOn this episode I talk with LA based Casting Director Zora DeHorter. Zora is a Nigerian born, British raised independent film, television and commercial casting director. She has cast such films as "Ali G InDa House" (2002), "Species III" (2004) and "Loving Annabelle" (2006). Zora has also made a name for herself as a coach, helping actors as they prepare for auditions.We talk about:Some of the nuanced differences between UK and LA actors.The experience of doing virtual auditions over Zoom.The importance of enjoying your self-tapes.Why it's important to truly hone and trust your instincts...
2020-12-091h 00
The Ash Taba ShowCasting Is The Single Most Subjective Part Of The Filmmaking Process | Debi ManwillerOn this episode I chat with 2 time Emmy award winner Debi Manwiller. She hast cast shows like 24, Chicago Hope and The Blacklist and part of the independent casting company Manwiller/Boast Casting along with Russell Boast.We talk about:The freedom that came to producers with things moving to self-tapes.Why it's harder for an actor to create a performance in a vacuum, with no in person feedback.The necessity of still having some in room auditions (post-Covid).Your personality and how you might be on set is part of the calculus of a casting decision...
2020-11-261h 45
The Ash Taba ShowFocus On Your Journey & Your Artistry | Caitlin D. JonesOn this episode I chat with New York based Casting Director Caitlin D. Jones who has worked on hundreds of commercial castings since getting her start in 2008. Her passion for casting expanded into the television and independent film genres. Caitlin is a proud member of the Television Academy, Commercial Casting Directors Association, The AICP, and Casting Society of America's Diversity Committee and since 2016, Caitlin has served the CSA as an Associate National Board Member.We talk about:The nature of some of her projects during CovidThe strong element of instinct and vibe that she operates from a...
2020-11-191h 31
The Ash Taba ShowAuditions Are About How You Bring Your Authenticity To The World Of The Story | Cara Chute RosenbaumOn this episode I chat with Casting Director Cara Chute Rosenbaum. Cara has worked on projects like "The Mindy Project", "Jumanji: The Next Level", "Stuber", "American Crime Story" and "The League". Having started out as a performer, she fell into casting accidentally and soon realised it was the perfect creative outlet for her. We talk about:Some of the pros, cons and clunky bits about Zoom auditions.Why you have to do all the research you can when preparing for an audition.Understanding how you interpret material uniquely as you and then knowing the world you a...
2020-11-121h 21
From the maker to the made - A Podcast For CreativesFrom The Maker To The Made EP.23 Ashley TabatabaiFrom the maker to the made is a podcast about creativity, artistry, Process and flow. Each week host Barry power speaks to artists and creatives to get their own personal and unique perspectives on their work process and lifestyle in the modern digital age.This week is episode no.23 Ashley TabatabaiAshley is an award-winning actor, filmmaker, producer and writer and Podcaster. Ashley is from a diverse cultural background, which is explored in his short film Falsified a story about the Spanish stolen babies scandal, Los Ninos robados.Twitter | Instagram | Youtube B...
2020-11-0556 min
The Ash Taba ShowAll You Can Be Doing Now Is Preparation | Sharon SorrentinoOn this episode I chat with Casting Director Sharon Sorrentino who has worked in the casting industry for over 15 years and have cast a number of independent film and theatre productions. Sharon was commissioned by Calm Publishing in 2012 to write a book for actors from the casting perspective. "The Audition Room - A Down To Earth Guide" is now in its second edition with The Book Guild.We talk about:The types of projects that are currently able to film in the Covid era.The fact that auditions are like job interviews.How the one thing...
2020-11-052h 05
The Ash Taba ShowA Lot Of Casting Is Who Do I Believe The Person Is Before I Turn On The Camera & They Even Say a Word | Seth CaskeyOn this episode I chat with Casting Director Seth Caskey who has been working with Elizabeth Barnes since 2015. Seth has been involved with such projects as the Emmy nominated Netflix series GLOW, What/If, Siren and Blood & Treasure. Seth was first drawn to casting while still pursuing a career as an actor.We talk about:The potential of the Netflix phenomenon for creators.Seth's start as an actor and how that has informed his work in Casting.Why it is so important for an actor to understand the product that it is they are selling.The...
2020-10-271h 41
The Ash Taba ShowEverybody Has An Idea For A Story. The Key Is The Structure | Fernando De La CruzOn this episode I talk to Fernando De La Cruz who is Program Manager for the Game Design degree at Full Sail University. We talk about:How he pivoted from always wanting to be an actor to ending up in the Video Game industry.How video game design has a huge math component to it and his experience of having to get up to speed with programming.The power of commercial engines like Unreal and Unity.How field of game design has become a field of prototyping.The similarities between video games and screenplays from a n...
2020-10-201h 19
The Ash Taba ShowThe Audience Will Believe It If You Believe It | Judy BowmanOn this episode I chat to Casting Director Judy Bowman. Judy has been casting since 1993. Her two passions are theater and film, always with diverse casting. She recently cast season 1 of the episodic BIG DOGS. She was nominated for an Artios Award for Best Webseries Casting for "Karl Manhair: Postal Inspector". She is an Adjunct Asst. Professor in the MFA Film School at Columbia University, and was on faculty at Harlem School of the Arts for 3 years. Judy is always on the cutting-edge of finding new talent, specializing in specific language skills, ethnicities, providing opportunities for ethnically and physically di...
2020-10-142h 02
The Ash Taba ShowActing & Auditioning on Zoom | Advice From Casting Director Erica S. BreamOn this episode I talk to Casting Director Erica S. Bream who has worked on projects like Altered Carbon, Colony and Star Trek Into Darkness. After 17 years in LA Erica moved to the Southeast and continues to work on projects that originate in LA and NYC as well as providing regional casting services. In addition, Erica has been providing online Zoom classes since 2017 and has a depth of useful insight on how to use the platform when it comes to auditions.We talk about:How her self-tape challenges providing her a form of artistic structure during...
2020-10-081h 23
The Ash Taba ShowWhat Sanford Meisner Told Me About Acting & Why You Should Always Be Creating | Spencer GarrettOn this episode I talk to actor and producer Spencer Garrett who can currently be seen in the Showtime Mini Series "The Comey Rule". Spencer is a third generation actor who has appeared in films like "Air Force One", "Once Upon a Time....in Hollywood" and Yes Man as well as shows such as "Law & Order", "Mad Men" and "House of Cards". During lockdown he produced and starred in the IGTV Zoom show "Quarantine" which is about an out of work cast from a fictional TV Soap (Chino Hills) who use Zoom to stay connected during the quarantine. All...
2020-09-301h 31
The Prime ActorThe Prime Actor - Hustle King Ashley TabatabaiToday Maddy and Rhi talk to actor, filmmaker and King of Hustle, Ashley Tabatabai as we peek behind the casting curtain.
2020-09-2533 min
The Ash Taba ShowCasting Are The Gatekeepers & My Job Is To Open The Gate | Jane JenkinsOn this episode I talk to legendary Casting Director Jane Jenkins who has likely cast one, if not many, of your favorite movies in her career. From the likes of A Beautiful Mind, Apollo 13 and A Few Good Men to When Harry Met Sally, Home Alone and The Princess Bride.We chat about:How all auditions are self-tape now and how this is the way we're going to see you anyway, on screen.The inordinate amounts of money currently being spent on Covid measures for projects to happen.Why things are going to be tougher for...
2020-09-231h 13
Artistic Finance21: Ashley Tabatabai - Filmmaker and ActorAshley Tabatabai talks about the balance of making money in a "regular" job while simultaneously being an actor and filmmaker in Leeds, England.
2020-09-2159 min
Yoel's Hang Outs PodcastUK vs Hollywood, Acting for ego vs passion and Fake News ft. Ashley TabatabaiYoel Aynalem and Ashley Tabatabai sit down and nerd out on a wide range of topics.
2020-09-181h 05
The Ash Taba ShowThe Power Of Being Constantly Curious & Knowing Your "Why?" | Jerry YingIn this episode I chat with actor turned producer and director Jerry Ying. He is one of the Co-Founders of Hero LA and showrunner of Quarantine; a Zoom IGTV series shot during lockdown in partnership with the SAG-AFTRA Covid-19 relief fund.We talk about:The process behind the creation of QuarantineJerry's transition from successful working actor to full time producer/director and business owner.The importance of knowing your "Why?" and your businesses "Why?" and values.How he never thought of being an actor growing up and coming from a family where academic education was everything...
2020-09-171h 21
The Ash Taba ShowActors Should Always Be Practising Their Craft | Gary ZuckerbrodOn this episode I chat with Casting Director Gary Zuckerbrod. Gary has cast movies like Pulp Fiction, Frequency and The Kissing Booth as well as shows such as The Last Ship and Rizzoli & Isles.We talk about:The parallels Gary sees between Casting and his work as a life coach.Why he can't build the "perfect" actor and what he looks for.The story behind how Ving Rhames came to be cast on "Monday Mornings"How sometimes it's just somebodies time and everything clicks into place.Why it's so easy to see when an actor is...
2020-09-101h 22
The Ash Taba ShowThe Power Is With The Actors & The Creators | Casting Director Richard HicksOn episode 35 I talk to Casting Director Richard Hicks who has cast some of the biggest movies you can think of; from Gravity, Zero Dark Thirty and Hell or High Water to Yes Man, Dude, Where's My Car? And Bean. Richard was the President of the Casting Society of America and is a former Actor who trained at The Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London.We chat about:The things you can do to claim your power back as an actor.Why it's so important to let go of the "hunger" for the job...
2020-09-041h 34
The Ash Taba ShowDebut Author Who Was Inspired To Write His Novel Whilst Being Honored at The White House | Norman McCombsOn episode 34 I speak with author and engineer Norman McCombs, who's debut novel "A Reason To Be" Is out now. Norman is a Fellow of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, which honored him with the EDISON Medal, their highest patent award. He has received numerous other awards for technical achievement, including the National Medal of Technology and Innovation from President Obama for developing the portable oxygen concentrator credited with saving and extending the lives of millions with lung diseases. He has over two hundred patents worldwide, primarily for air separation technology used for a myriad of oxygen applications...
2020-08-261h 35
The Ash Taba ShowHow This Producer & His Team Made Hit Horror Movie "Host" on Zoom During Lockdown | Douglas CoxOn episode 33 I chat with film producer Douglas Cox of Shadowhouse Films. Douglas produced the horror film "Host" during Lockdown, which was all shot over Zoom and has received critical acclaim within the horror community and main stream media. He is part of the BFI Insight programme, with past work including the short film "Dawn of the Deaf" which was screened at festivals like Sundance and the BFI London Film Festival.We talk about:The journey of developing, filming and delivering a feature film within 3 months at the height of lockdown!The importance of momentum as...
2020-08-181h 07
The Ash Taba ShowThe Importance Of Finding Your Filmmaking Tribe | Laura TorenbeekOn episode 32 of the show I chat with filmmaker Laura Torenbeek of Green Film Productions. Laura is currently working as a production coordinator at the Northern Film School as well as a freelancer directing / producing film content. She's recently finished the short Candy Floss and is now creating the web series Girls with Capes through her production company Green Film Productions.We chat about:The importance of exploring the things you are interested in.Finding your filmmaking tribe and really thinking about who you want to work with.Some of the big things you need to...
2020-08-1049 min
The Ash Taba ShowHow Amazing Film & TV Costumes Are Made | Ailsa WindsorOn this episode I'm joined by Costume Designer Ailsa Windsor. Ailsa works across film and TV and has been involved on projects such as Harlots (Hulu), The Infiltrator and the upcoming feature film 355. She has a First Class Degree in Costume with Textiles and an MA in Costume with Professional Engagement. She shares some really fascinating insights into how Film & TV costumes are made and the immense scale of the entire process. We talk about:The collaborative process between costume and the rest of the crew on a film or show. Where inspiration for a costume ca...
2020-08-021h 08
The Ash Taba ShowWhy This Film Producer Advocates Finding Creative Collaborators At A Similar Level To You | Alexandra BlueOn this episode I chat with producer Alexandra Blue of Bluebird Productions. Alexandra is an award-winning creative producer with a talent lead approach. She was recently selected for the BFI’s flagship Insight emerging producer programme, supporting the next generation of UK producers bringing original feature films to the screen. We talk about:Her move from Australia to the UK and working at companies like Warp Films and Heyday.The benefit of doing an internship and her views on working for "free"The importance of creating your own stuff and learning by doing.Why sho...
2020-07-261h 48
The Ash Taba ShowCommit To a Career, Not a Single Script or Project | Producer Farah AbushweshaOn episode 29 of the show I'm joined by BAFTA nominated producer Farah Abushwesha. Her production company is Rocliffe and she created the BAFTA Rocliffe New Writing Competition and Showcase. She has made comedy content used by the White House, a Netflix Original and an Irish Film Board commission to celebrate the centenary of the 1916 Easter Rising. She was Screen International's Star of Tomorrow 2017 and was the 2020 BFI Vision Awardee.We talk about:The ethos behind her company Rocliffe, including the new writing showcase it offers and the two books Farah wrote on Screenwriting and Low Budget...
2020-07-1854 min
The Ash Taba ShowWhy This Casting Director Believes Actors Benefit From Learning About All Areas Of The Business | Jeremy GordonOn this episode I'm joined by Jeremy Gordon, CSA who has been a Casting Director and Producer in LA for 15 years working in the studio/network world as well as the indie world spanning mediums from film & TV to digital platforms, podcasts and more. We talk about:Jeremy's work as Casting Director and Producer on the original IGTV series, Quarantine, a first of its kind digital series shot 100% on Zoom and is donating 100% of the proceeds to the SAG AFTRA Foundation Covid-19 Disaster Relief Fund.What draws him to the world of indie films.S...
2020-07-131h 21
The Ash Taba ShowShe Escaped Corporate America & Managed a Mid-Life Crisis To Launch Her Career as An Author | Karin FreelandOn this episode of the show I talk to writer and speaker Karin Freeland, who successfully navigated her way through a mid-life crisis to leave Corporate America and launch her career as an author. We talk about:Her time as an actress and the eventual move into the corporate world.The experience of having a mid-life crisis.Advice on how to handle self-imposed pressure and fears.Her journey as an author and the writing process.To find out more about Karin go to www.karinfreeland.comYou can also follow her o...
2020-07-1054 min
The Ash Taba ShowEvery Project You Do Needs To Be A Stepping Stone Forwards | Film Producer Lucy MeerOn this episode of the show I'm joined by producer Lucy Meer of Strive Films. She started out by working on Feature Film "ID2" before going on to work at Warp Films. Lucy then set up Strive Films in 2017 producing numerous films, including the BAFTA long listed "Mary Anning" and upcoming BFI funded short "Pop" starring Stephen Graham. She is part of the inaugural BFI Insights program, which is a development scheme to help stand out producers grow their businesses and get their first features made.During the show we talk about:Why every decision and...
2020-07-081h 16
The Ash Taba ShowThe Difference Between Commercial and Film/TV Auditions | Casting Director Andrea ClarkOn this episode I'm joined by Casting Director Andrea Clark who has been in the industry since 1991 where she started her journey with renowned Casting Director Jeremy Zimmermann. She founded Andrea Clark Casting in 2006; drawing on her feature film and television heritage, Andrea casts major national and international commercial campaigns, including MCDONALDS, RIMMEL, ZURICH, JOHN LEWIS and T-MOBILE, whilst continuing to cast films and tv projects of all sizes and genres. Andrea is a board member of The Casting Directors Association - https://www.castingdirectorsassociation.com/During the show we talk about:How Andrea...
2020-06-2854 min
The Ash Taba ShowCasting Director Jemima McWilliams On Casting Her First Bond Movie And The Role She Was Most Proud OfOn this episode of the show I'm joined by Casting Director Jemima McWilliams who has just cast the new James Bond movie "No Time To Die". Jemima started out her career in 2010 representing actors at Curtis Brown Group Ltd. She then made the move to casting working under Debbie McWilliams in 2014. Some of her credits include "The Rhythm Section" (Paramount), "The Foreigner", "Robin Hood" (Lionsgate) & the aforementioned "No Time To Die".We talk about:What she learnt about the industry from working at a leading talent agency.Tips for self-taping that empower actors.Why it's so...
2020-06-211h 58
The Ash Taba ShowWhy a Lot of Artists Choose The Artists Path | Bonnie GillespieOn this episode of the show I'm joined by Bonnie Gillespie who built her business by demystifying the casting process and illuminating the business side of pursuing a creative career. Her most popular book is Self-Management for Actors, the curriculum upon which her teaching is based. As a producer and Emmy-honored casting director, Bonnie specializes in indie darlings. Whether casting or coaching, she is passionate about leaving the entertainment industry better than she found it.On the show we talk about:The origins of Self Management For Actors and how it evolved from Bonnie interviewing Casting...
2020-06-141h 22
The Ash Taba ShowWhat Auditions & Filming Might Look Like In a Covid World | Casting Director Luci LenoxOn this episode of the show I'm joined by Casting Director Luci Lenox. Luci has cast over 100 productions either as lead casting director or as Spanish or European casting director for international co-productions. She has highly efficient casting offices in Barcelona and Madrid, Spain and is ideally set up to cast for both international and local cast. She was on the board of CSA Europe for two years and was the head of the Diversity and Inclusion Committee in Europe. Clients include Netflix, Fox, Paramount, ABC, Disney, NBC, MediaPro as well as numerous Spanish independent producers. Films she has...
2020-06-1058 min
The Ash Taba ShowHow This Single Mother Created Her Own Business & Is Surviving Lockdown In Italy | Dawn KeoghOn this episode of the show I'm joined by wellness coach and entrepreneur Dawn Jane Keogh from her home in Milan, Italy. You can find out more about her here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/djkschool-61874b113/Enjoy the show!Support the show
2020-06-0856 min
The Ash Taba ShowThe Key Things Nikki Meadows Looks For In a Performance When Casting For TV Documentary DramaOn this episode I'm joined by Casting Director Nikki Meadows. Nikki specialises in award winning TV documentary drama, commercials and short films. Notable credits include Suffragettes with Lucy Worsley (BBC1 – Best Specialist Factual BAFTA winner 2019), BIFA nominated Tell Me Who I Am (Netflix – directed by Ed Perkins and produced by Simon Chin/Lightbox), and the 8 part Damian Lewis fronted series Spy Wars.On the show we talk about:Self-tape advice for actors.Nikki's time as a talent agent, working with the likes of Elton John.How actors can best work with their agents.What to focus on w...
2020-05-311h 40
The Ash Taba ShowThe Possible Future For Indie Film & The Role of The Streaming Services | Manuel PuroOn this episode I'm joined by Casting Director Manuel Puro. He has worked with some of the UK's legendary casting directors as well as spending time at leading talent agency ICM and as Head of Development at Guy Ritchie's production company Ska Films, before coming back to the casting world. Manuel is also the brains behind The Acting Habit, an online self-tape workshop developed to encourage actors to embrace the art of self-taping by providing them with affordable guidance from the very first steps, up to interacting with leading casting professionals from around the world.On the...
2020-05-271h 37
The Ash Taba ShowWhy Actors Should Accept & Embrace How The Industry Sees You | Brandon Henry Rodriguez, CSAOn this episode I talk to LA based Casting Director Brandon Henry Rodriguez. He got his start in casting as an assistant for FX's "Wilfred" then quickly moved his way up to an associate working on various network television shows and award-winning independent films. In 2017, Brandon created his company - BHR Casting - which has cast numerous films starring such talent as Vince Vaughn, Alexis Bledel, Liam Hemsworth, and Kurt Russell to name just a few.On the show we talk about:His start as an actor and how he eventually fell into Casting.Launching his...
2020-05-211h 23
The Ash Taba ShowCasting Director Karlee Fomalont Debunks What "Make a Choice" Means When Told To An ActorOn this episode of the show I'm joined by NYC Casting Director Karlee Fomalont. She began her career at CBS Primetime NY and ABC Primetime NY, where she cut her teeth working on numerous pilots. She then transitioned into independent casting, working on projects such as Steven Spielberg's acclaimed drama "The Post," for which her team was nominated for an Artios Award for Outstanding Achievement in Casting, and "The Get Down," Baz Luhrmann's ambitious Netflix series. In NY independent casting, she has worked with a number of top casting directors in the city, and currently is the Associate at...
2020-05-171h 55
The Ash Taba ShowThe Future of Data Privacy & The Benefits For Consumers & Advertisers | Dan RobertsIn this episode I talk to Digital Marketing specialist Dan Roberts. Dan focuses specifically within Paid Media and works at one of the biggest digital performance marketing agencies in the world. He also has his own blog which is his vehicle to provide actionable and honest insight on all things PPC (https://ppchubbub.com/)On the show we talk about:The misconception that you have to be from a maths, computer science or statistics background to be in digital marketing.How there is now so much data to play with in your campaigns and the need...
2020-05-141h 08
The Ash Taba ShowHow To Try & "Let Go" of An Audition & Not Get Stuck In Anxiety | Sophie Kingston-SmithOn this episode I'm joined by Sophie Kingston-Smith who is Casting Associate at Rose Wicksteed Casting. She has worked on shows like Genius Picasso and Homeland Season 8 as well as Feature films such as "The Nun" by Warner Brothers and Sony's "Escape Room".On the show we chat about:The importance of style and taste when it came to finding her "Casting Home"Tips on how to "let go" of your audition and not get stuck in anxiety.Why Commercial auditions are great experience in the room and can build strong connections for your career.Highlighting...
2020-05-081h 36
The Ash Taba ShowThe Big Things Ceri Bedingfield Has Learnt As a Casting Director That She Wishes She Knew When She Was An ActressOn this episode of the show I chat to freelance Casting Assistant Ceri Bedingfield. Ceri has worked across TV, Film, Theatre & Commercial projects with Casting Directors Rachel Freck, Dixie Chassay, Jill Green & Emily Tilelli. Recent credits include TIN STAR Series 3 (KUDOS/Gaumont co-production for Sky Atlantic) and feature film LOUIS WAIN, starring Benedict Cumberbatch. She is currently working with Rachel Freck on a number of new drama and comedy TV projects for 2020.We talk about:Ceri's start as an actress and how and why she eventually moved into the casting world.Why there is no set...
2020-05-031h 32
The Ash Taba ShowThe Role of AI & Automation & How It Might Shift The Digital Landscape | Christina MalcolmOn this episode I chat to Digital Advertiser Christina Malcolm. Christina works at iProspect, one of the largest global digital performance agencies. She started out in their London office before moving to their New York division. On the show we talk about:How to get into digital marketing.Working at a big agency.What makes strong team and company culture.The qualities of a good manager.Having a side hustle.The benefits of paid advertising.The role of AI and automation and how it might shift the digital landscape.You can follow Christina here:
2020-04-3056 min
The Ash Taba ShowHow The Casting Director of The Witcher Came Up With The #CastingCrushesCorona Initiative | Faye TimbyOn this episode I'm joined by Faye Timby who is Casting Assistant at Sophie Holland Casting and best known for her work in casting the Netflix hit "The Witcher". Faye & Sophie are also the brains behind the #CastingCrushesCorona initiative that has taken social media by storm and connected #casting professionals and #actors during the current lock-down.During the show we chat about:How the #CastingCrushesCorona initiative and how it came to be.Which role got cast first on The Witcher.The diversity on the show.Advice for actors when auditioning.Why your personality and being a...
2020-04-261h 32
The Ash Taba ShowHow The Artists Way Has Helped Transform This Actresses Life | Barbara HowlinOn this episode I'm joined by Barbara Howlin who is an actress and a huge proponent of the book The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron. She provides a guided group experience to help support people in the work. Barbara is also an acting teacher at Anthony Meindl's Actor Workshop in LA.During the show we talk about:How there is no right or wrong way to grieve and that mother nature is forcing us to slow down right now.How we all have an inner kid artist that wants to be liberated and that should be...
2020-04-2236 min
The Ash Taba ShowWhy Your Type Needs To Be Aligned With The Narrative Of The Story | Daryl Eisenberg, CSAOn this episode I'm joined by New York based Casting Director Daryl Eisenberg. Daryl is a Casting Director and Managing Partner with Eisenberg/Beans Casting. From 2004-2017, Daryl was the owner of Daryl Eisenberg Casting. As a casting associate and assistant, Daryl has worked in the offices of some of the greats in NY casting. Daryl has taught at schools and institutions around the country. She holds a BFA from Tisch School of The Arts/New York University and Playwrights Horizons Theater School. On the show we chat about:How your career is a marathon not a...
2020-04-181h 01
The Ash Taba ShowWhat A Casting Office Sees When You're Submitted | Amber HornOn this episode I'm joined by LA Casting Director Amber Horn. Amber is one half of Aufiero/Horn Casting. She set up the company almost 10 years ago with Danielle Aufiero to work on the feature film "Sound of My Voice". Since then, they've cast countless projects, including the Netflix hit "The OA". And earlier this year they won an Artios award for their work on the Disney show "Andi Mack".We talk about:What casting wants to see from you when you audition.Seeing each audition as though you are creating a piece of art.Advice...
2020-04-1551 min
The Ash Taba ShowKey Tips For Your Acting Resume & Spotlight Or Actors Access Page | Amy Raine JacksonJoining me on this episode is casting professional Amy Raine Jackson. She's worked with a who's who of the casting world and has been involved on projects like Alex Garland's "Devs", Mindy Kaling's "Four Weddings & a Funeral" and the Apple TV+ shows Suspicion and Trying. She works as Casting Associate to Amy Hubbard in the UK.On the show, we talk about:Amy's start as an actor and her journey into casting.Actor's nerves and how casting are on the actors side.What the process is like for Casting Offices when working with networks, directors and...
2020-04-101h 08
The Ash Taba ShowHow To Live With Both An Illness Model & A Wellness Model | Lauran WareOn this episode I'm joined by Lauran Ware who is an emotional and mental wellness therapist. Lauran provides a holistic approach to wellbeing and mental health, facilitating programmes using tools from her studies in western psychology, depth psychology, Jungian analysis, affective state theory, somatic experiencing, EMDR, CBT, affective neurobiology traditional healing, hypnotherapy, creative arts therapy, post-modern spirituality, martial arts, nutrition, yoga, mindfulness and musicology to assist in healing and allowing her clients to become the truest version of themselves. On the show we chat about:How we've all been pathologically busyThe current pa...
2020-04-051h 02
The Ash Taba ShowHow Making Her Own Films Has Made Her a Better Actress | Andromeda GodfreyIn this episode I talk to actress and filmmaker Andromeda Godfrey who you can catch in the romantic comedy "Oh, Ramona!" on Netflix. Her debut feature film 2:Hrs from her production company Makelight Productions is available now on Amazon.On the show, we talk about:Coming into the acting game later in lifeLife experience being the inspiration for your own filmsSelf-distribution insights based on her experience making 2:HrsHow making her own films has made her a better actressTips on how to run a successful crowdfunding campaign for your filmTo connect with Andromeda...
2020-04-0555 min
The Ash Taba ShowThe Future Of Online Casting With We Audition CTO Richard CambridgeIn this episode I talk to Richard Cambridge who is an actor and CTO of WeAudition. WeAudition is a video chat community that connects actor and industry professionals. Serving as a platform for actors to rehearse and self-tape their auditions as well as for casting offices to hold virtual casting sessions.On the show we talk about:The origins of WeAudition and how Richard connected with his business partner Darren Darnborough through a mutual friendship with Casting Director Sophie Holland.Having a side hustle as an actor The features of the WeAudition platformThe #CastingCrushesCorona i...
2020-04-0549 min
The Ash Taba ShowWhat This Serial Entrepreneur Would Do If He Was Starting a Business From Nothing Now | Nathan HirschIn this episode I talk to serial entrepreneur Nathan Hirsch who went on to drive millions of dollars of sales from the Amazon business he created from his dorm room.His innate problem solving nature led him to create the Freelancer and VA site FreeeUp, inspired by his use of VA's to scale his own business. The company has recently been bought out and Nathan and his business partner are embarking on their new venture, Outsource School. They offer courses and training to people wanting to leverage the full power of VA's to help their businesses grow.
2020-03-2942 min
The Ash Taba ShowAudition Advice From An Actor Who Worked In A Top Casting Office For 2 Years | Scott Michael WagstaffIn this episode, I chat with actor Scott Michael Wagstaff, covering his journey from musical theatre to screen actor and discussing some of the key things he's learnt along the way. We talk about:The transition Scott made from musical theatre to screen acting and the decision process behind that.The importance of good training as an actor and what makes a good class.Scott's experience of working in a leading casting office for close to 2 years. Including some of the myths it dispelled for him and the clarity it gave him on the audition process...
2020-03-161h 55
The Ash Taba ShowThe Importance Of Personal Development & The Power of The Mind | Simone Adele TurnerIn this episode Ashley chats to Presenter and creative marketing professional Simone Adele Turner - https://simoneadeleturner.com/Simone joins in from New York and we chat about:How to approach a career in performing arts as well as working in a more traditional business role.Why can't we all be more than one thing?Simone's tips on how to manage with set backs, especially when it comes to things like not booking a job or hearing back from an audition.The key role personal development plays in her life and the power of the mind...
2020-03-0931 min
The Ash Taba ShowHow This Entrepreneur Lost It All & Then Found His True Self | Sam GoyalIn this episode Ashley talks to Sam Goyal who is a clean technology entrepreneur and founder of Solar Horizon.The conversation covers:- The idea of entrepreneurship and how we might define it. - Why it's essential to get out of your own head when starting (and during) your entrepreneurial journey.- How can you measure impact?- What to do when all is lost.- Why you shouldn't believer your own bullshit.Check out more on Sam here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samridhgoyal/Support the show
2020-02-261h 39
Maltin on MoviesAshley Bell, John Michael McCarthy III, and Roddy Tabatabai Actress (and long-ago schoolmate of Jessie’s) Ashley Bell has made an impressive directorial debut with Love & Bananas. It’s a fascinating documentary about elephant rescue in Southeast Asia, made with the cooperation of a remarkable woman named Lek Chailert. She is the Mother Theresa of pachyderms, a miracle worker you really ought to meet. Ashley and her team join Leonard and Jessie for a dynamic discussion of their film, which is now playing in theaters. Check their website atwww.loveandbananas.com and learn more at www.changeforbalance.com.
2018-05-091h 01
The Tino Orsini ShowThe Tino Orsini Show Episode 55 with guest ASHLEY TABATABAIThis week I am joined by the very talented Actor, Screenwriter and Producer Ashley Tabatabai.
Recorded, edited and mixed by Sergio Cabrera for Wood End Lane Productions
2017-12-1231 min
The Tino Orsini ShowThe Tino Orsini Show Episode 55 with guest ASHLEY TABATABAIThis week I am joined by the very talented Actor, Screenwriter and Producer Ashley Tabatabai. Recorded, edited and mixed by Sergio Cabrera for Wood End Lane Productions
2017-12-1231 min